US11253761B2 - Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick - Google Patents
Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US11253761B2 US11253761B2 US15/325,212 US201515325212A US11253761B2 US 11253761 B2 US11253761 B2 US 11253761B2 US 201515325212 A US201515325212 A US 201515325212A US 11253761 B2 US11253761 B2 US 11253761B2
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- knob
- region
- tang
- stick
- longitudinal axis
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/12—Handles contoured according to the anatomy of the user's hand
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/14—Handles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B59/00—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00
- A63B59/20—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00 having means, e.g. pockets, netting or adhesive type surfaces, for catching or holding a ball, e.g. for lacrosse or pelota
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B59/00—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00
- A63B59/50—Substantially rod-shaped bats for hitting a ball in the air, e.g. for baseball
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B59/00—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00
- A63B59/70—Bats, rackets, or the like, not covered by groups A63B49/00 - A63B57/00 with bent or angled lower parts for hitting a ball on the ground, on an ice-covered surface, or in the air, e.g. for hockey or hurling
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/06—Handles
- A63B60/16—Caps; Ferrules
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/14—Lacrosse
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/18—Baseball, rounders or similar games
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/18—Baseball, rounders or similar games
- A63B2102/182—Softball
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/20—Cricket
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/24—Ice hockey
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2102/00—Application of clubs, bats, rackets or the like to the sporting activity ; particular sports involving the use of balls and clubs, bats, rackets, or the like
- A63B2102/32—Golf
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/40—Acceleration
Definitions
- the present disclosure generally relates to a knob for use in combination with the gripping end of a swinging implement having a hollow stick, shaft or handle.
- the disclosure relates to a knob for attachment to the end of a hollow shaft of a sports stick, for example, the hollow shaft of a hockey stick, a lacrosse stick, a baseball bat, a softball bat, a cricket bat or a golf club.
- the present disclosure also relates to a cavity constructed in the butt-end of, or knob of, a swinging implement, with a hollow cavity that is applied to the gripping end of swinging implements which are hollow sticks, shafts or handles.
- Swinging implements those with a handle that are grasped in the hand(s) and swung with a greater arm motion, date back many thousands of years. These implements, known as “simple machines,” were born out of the need for survival, e.g., hunting and protection. Over the last 8,500 years they have evolved into hammers, axes, swords and other tools. Early swinging implements of the tool and weapon variety are distinguished by the way they are swung by the user, specifically those implements are swung a linear swing path which ends at the point of contact. The “linear path swing” mandates that the hand(s) stay behind the center axis of the implement throughout the entirety of the swing and not deviate from the linear path.
- This new swing motion allows the collective energy generated by the swing to be imparted, with speed and power through the targeted object, i.e., a puck or ball, and allow the momentum generated before contact to diminish in speed and force —thus was born the “rotational-swing.”
- a rotational-swing can be observed in sports like, golf, cricket, baseball, softball, hockey and others.
- the rotational-swing creates a whole new set of coordinated motions, steps, grips and swinging implements that continue to evolve in all sports today.
- the greater rotational and linear swings and related paths discussed here are not to be confused with rotational and linear “swing techniques” taught in some sports.
- the oval shape grip and handle of the linear-path swinging implement is ill-equipped to serve the required dynamics of a rotational swing. Because the oval shaped grip and handle restricted the path of the hand(s) during a swing to a linear swing path, the rotational-swing path is best served by a round or generally rounded grip and/or handle. As the more round the handle/grip the more easily the hand(s) can pass over the central axis of the implement to perform and complete a rotational-swing path.
- the power grip When an athlete grasps a sports implement with the hands, it is referred to as “the power grip”—with the handle or grip being fully or mostly wrapped with the fingers & palm and opposed by the thumb.
- the hand(s) is forced through a rapid ulnar flexion or bending of the wrist to the pinky side of the hand to navigate over the central longitudinal axis of the implement to complete the swing—for this analysis, this moment is referred to as the “transitional phase” of a rotational swing path.
- compression and friction forces peak in the area of the hypothenar as the hand(s) pass over the central axis of the swinging implement.
- Knobs incorporated in all sports swinging implements typically have the entirety of the knob being perpendicular in orientation to the center axis of the sports swinging implement.
- a perpendicularly-oriented knob is not without its problems; it creates, in effect, a speed bump for the base gripping hand to overcome at the transitional phase of the swing.
- Hockey sticks are composed of a straight, mostly rectangular in cross-section, shaft having a longitudinal central axis from the non-blade end of the stick to the point of attachment where the blade is affixed.
- a complete hockey stick features a flattened blade affixed at its end used to control (handle, pass, maneuver and contact) the puck.
- Hockey sticks are constructed of various materials—solid wood, aluminum, plastic, composite and more recently with carbon fiber materials resulting in very light and strong sticks with a hollow shaft.
- sticks have been manufactured with a “tacky” surface covering to enhance grip.
- a common practice among players taping their stick handle, is to create a “knob” on the end of the stick using multiple layers of tape. This practice has been in use for decades and varies with the personal preference of each player. This “knob of tape” aids players in keeping the stick in their hand during play and makes the stick easy to pick up off the ice if dropped.
- the evolution of the hockey stick has resulted in the predominance of composite sticks made with resins and weaved fibers like fiberglass and carbon used in play. This type of structure has become the preferred standard stick design at virtually all playing levels of hockey.
- the hockey stick is capable of accepting an extension to lengthen the stick for greater leverage or, as per the knob described herein, an ergonomic knob to improve grip and performance.
- rubber sleeves which simply replicate the taping of the stick handle, are slipped over the ends of the sticks. This provides a similar solution to the taping but does not provide any additional benefit or support and may well create unwanted compression and resistance in handling the stick.
- the predominantly rectangular shape of the stick is not conducive to engaging the subtle shapes of the carpal arches and fingers of the gripping hand or the changes that occur in the relationship between the hand and the stick during the course of play where a rotational swing motion is constantly evident.
- hockey players typically wear out their gloves in the palm (specifically the area of the hypothenar) area of their glove. This wear is the result of constant and considerable friction, compression and torque being applied through the glove by the hand to the stick and the knob of tape as the hand passes back and forth across the central axis of the stick.
- Lacrosse sticks are composed of a straight handle, a generally elongated-octagonal cross-section shaft having a longitudinal central axis from the grip end of the handle, wherein one end is capped with a plug, with the other end being the point of attachment where the throat of the head is affixed to the handle.
- a complete lacrosse stick features the handle, rubber plug and a basket-like head with a net, comprised of a pocket and shooting string, made of heavy rope-like webbing. The head end of the stick is used to control (catch, cradle, block and pass) the ball.
- Lacrosse sticks are mostly constructed of various metals (aluminum) and some plastic and composite sticks are available—most handles feature a hollow shaft.
- Lacrosse players for the most part, carry the head of the stick above their waist, whereas hockey players utilize the blade of their stick below their waist.
- players “cradle” the ball in the pocket, rolling the stick forward and backward in their hands during play to keep the ball fixed in the pocket. This constant movement of the stick in the hands generates friction and compression in the players hands.
- Lacrosse gloves are very similar to their larger and heavier padded cousins, the hockey glove, in that they too wear out in the same manor and place—through the power-grip area and over the hypothenar of the hand.
- the hockey stick is a rigid, rectangular structure, similar to that of a lacrosse stick, that when gripped and handled throughout use in play, delivers constant compression to the hypothenar area of the base gripping hand due to the very nature of the power-grip and rotational swing motion.
- a knob for use in connection with a swinging implement that (i) provides a structure and/or surfaces that cradle and support the greater area of the hypothenar of the hand, (ii) distributes compressive forces across the greater area of the angled cantle-like flange to a broader area of the hand rather than focused on the hamate bone and ulnar nerve, (iii) provides improved contoured gripping structures for the pinky finger to improve overall grip stability throughout a rotational swing, (iv) provides increased effective surface area contact between the swinging implement and the hand across the various palmar arches of the hand resulting in greater swing control and precision, and/or (v) provides an angled, cantle-like flange to properly align with natural limited range of motion of the hand during ulnar flexion.
- the knob presented herein provides support, grip and performance.
- the knob for insertion into the hollow end of a metallic, polymeric or composite shaft of a sports stick.
- the knob comprises a tang adapted for insertion into the hollow end and a grip adapted for the hand(s) of a user when the tang is inserted into the hollow end.
- the knob comprises an oblique supporting structure, a transitional neck structure and a tang structure—each of which is aligned on a common central longitudinal axis forming the knob.
- knob for support and grip of the hand that includes an upper rounded oblique, cantle-like supporting structure.
- This ventral cantle-like structure is adapted to engage and cradle the heal of the gripping hand, more specifically the hypothenar of the gripping hand.
- knob for support and grip of the hand that includes a lower rounded oblique gripping structure that engages the small finger of the hand.
- This dorsal cantle-like structure provides stable engagement structure for the small finger of the gripping hand.
- knob for support and grip of the hand that includes a generally oblique grip end that engages and supports the collective gripping structure of the hand extending from the little finger following along the palmer arches of the hand.
- knob for support and grip of the hand that includes a tang, which is sized to closely fit into the hollow end of a stick, handle or shaft, thus properly securing the greater knob to the stick, handle or shaft.
- knobs for support and grip of the hand wherein the end of the knob is aligned to the central longitudinal axis of the knob, and terminates in an oblique rounded cylinder which is generally parallel to the oblique angle of the flange structure.
- knobs for support and grip of the hand wherein the end of the knob, aligned to the central longitudinal axis of the knob, terminates in a non-oblique rounded cylinder which is generally perpendicular to the central axis of the knob
- knob adapted for insertion into the hollow end of a sports stick, the knob comprising a central longitudinal axis, an imaginary coronal plane, an imaginary sagittal plane, a tang for insertion into the hollow end of the sports stick, a grip adapted for being grasped by the hand of an athlete, and a step between the tang and the grip adapted for abutting the end surface of the hollow end of the sports stick when the tang is inserted therein.
- the sagittal and coronal planes are mutually orthogonal and intersect along the central longitudinal axis.
- the grip comprises a grip end distal to the tang, a dorsal cantle region and a ventral cantle region.
- the dorsal and ventral cantle regions are between the tang and the grip end and are on opposing sides of the imaginary coronal plane.
- the imaginary sagittal plane intersects and subdivides each of the dorsal and cantle regions, respectively, into two parts.
- the dorsal and ventral cantle regions each provide a curved support surface for the hand of the athlete when the athlete is gripping the sports stick and have a radius of curvature in the sagittal plane, the radius of curvature of the ventral cantle region being greater than the radius of curvature of the dorsal cantle region.
- knob adapted for insertion into the hollow end of a sports stick, the knob comprising a central longitudinal axis, an imaginary coronal plane, an imaginary sagittal plane, a tang for insertion into the hollow end of the sports stick, a grip adapted for being grasped by the hand of an athlete, and a step between the tang and the grip adapted for abutting the end surface of the hollow end of the sports stick when the tang is inserted therein.
- the sagittal and coronal planes are mutually orthogonal and intersect along the central longitudinal axis.
- the grip comprises a grip end distal to the tang, a dorsal cantle region and a ventral cantle region.
- the dorsal and ventral cantle regions are between the tang and the grip end, are on opposing sides of the imaginary coronal plane, and are bisected by the imaginary sagittal plane.
- the dorsal and ventral cantle regions each provide a curved support surface for the hand of the athlete when the athlete is gripping the sports stick and have a radius of curvature in the sagittal plane, the radius of curvature of the ventral cantle region being greater than the radius of curvature of the dorsal cantle region.
- knob adapted for insertion into the hollow end of a sports stick, the knob comprising a central longitudinal axis, a tang for insertion into the hollow end of the sports stick, a grip adapted for being grasped by the hand of an athlete, and a step between the tang and the grip adapted for abutting the end surface of the hollow end of the sports stick when the tang is inserted therein.
- the grip comprises a grip end distal to the tang, a dorsal cantle region and a ventral cantle region, the dorsal and ventral cantle regions being between the tang and the grip end and on opposing sides of an imaginary coronal plane containing the central longitudinal axis and bisected by an imaginary sagittal plane that contains the central longitudinal axis and is orthogonal to the imaginary coronal plane.
- the dorsal and ventral cantle regions provide curved support surfaces for the hand of the athlete when the athlete is gripping the sports stick, wherein the dorsal cantle region and ventral cantle region are asymmetric relative to each other about the coronal plane. Stated differently, the dorsal and cantle regions are not mirror images of each other.
- knobs adapted for insertion into the hollow end of a sports stick, the knob comprising a central longitudinal axis, a tang for insertion into the hollow end of the sports stick and a grip adapted for being grasped by the hand of an athlete.
- the grip comprises a grip end distal to the tang, a dorsal cantle region and a ventral cantle region, the dorsal and ventral cantle regions being between the tang and the grip end and on opposing sides of an imaginary coronal plane containing the central longitudinal axis and bisected by an imaginary sagittal plane that contains the central longitudinal axis and is orthogonal to the imaginary coronal plane.
- the dorsal and ventral cantle regions provide curved support surfaces for the hand of the athlete when the athlete is gripping the sports stick, wherein the dorsal cantle region and ventral cantle region are asymmetric relative to each other and the volume of the dorsal cantle region exceeds the volume of the ventral cantle region.
- FIG. 1 is a profile view of a knob of the present disclosure for use in combination with a sports stick;
- FIG. 2 is a detail view of the knob of FIG. 1 with a portion of the tang 1 . 4 removed;
- FIG. 2A is a cross-section of the knob of FIG. 1 taken along imaginary plane 2 . 14 and perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis;
- FIG. 2B is a cross-section of the knob of FIG. 1 taken along imaginary plane 2 . 13 and perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis;
- FIG. 2C is a cross-section of the knob of FIG. 1 taken along imaginary plane 2 . 12 and perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis;
- FIG. 3A is a front view of the knob of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3B is a cross-section of the knob of FIG. 3A , taken along sagittal plane SP;
- FIG. 3C is a cross-section of the knob of FIG. 3A , taken along sagittal plane SP and is the complementary cross-section to the cross-section of FIG. 3B ;
- FIG. 4 is a back view of the knob with flange, shaft and tang of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is a profile view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 , inserted into a fragmentary of a hollow rectangular stick (shown in phantom) with a gripping hand;
- FIG. 6 is a 3 ⁇ 4 below perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 ., with a fragmentary of a hollow rectangular stick;
- FIG. 7 is a 3 ⁇ 4 below perspective of the embodiment of the grip portion of FIG. 2 , with an octagonal tang with a fragmentary of a hollow octagonal stick;
- FIG. 8 is a top view of the knob for application with a hollow rectangular stick
- FIG. 9 is a top view of the knob for application with a hollow octagonal stick
- FIG. 10 is a profile view of a complete hockey stick with the embodiment of FIG. 1 . inserted in the end with a gripping hand:
- FIG. 11 is an enlarged, fragmentary, profile view of FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 12 is a profile view of a lacrosse stick with the embodiment of FIG. 7 inserted in the end with a gripping hand;
- FIG. 13 is an enlarged, fragmentary, profile view of FIG. 12 ;
- FIG. 14 is a profile view of a baseball bat with the embodiment of FIG. 1 with round tang inserted into the handle end with a gripping hand;
- FIG. 15 is a profile view of a golf club with the embodiment of FIG. 1 . with round tang inserted in the end with a gripping hand;
- FIG. 16 is a profile view of the knob with support flange, shaft and tang for application with a rectangular stick with a flat butt end;
- FIG. 17 is a profile view of the knob with support flange, shaft and tang for application with a rectangular stick with a rounded butt end;
- FIG. 18 is a profile view of the knob with support flange, shaft and tang for application with a rectangular stick with a thick gripping butt end.
- FIG. 19A is a profile view of the knob with support flange and tang for application with a round sport stick.
- FIG. 19B is a top view of the knob of FIG. 19A .
- FIG. 20 is a fragmentary profile view of a solid bat handle and angled knob with a cavity for housing a sensor
- FIG. 21 is a knob-end view of FIG. 20 .
- axially symmetric refers to symmetry about an axis in a direction that is perpendicular to the axis.
- cantle as used herein in connection with a surface refers to a surface that is curved upwardly similar to the raised, curved part at the back of a horse saddle.
- the cantle is adapted to engage the hypothenar of the gripping hand.
- the cantle-like structure of the knob described herein cradles the hypothenar of the hand in the same way giving support, stability and increased surface area contact to the hand throughout a swing.
- coronal plane refers to a plane containing the central longitudinal axis dividing a knob of the present disclosure (or an element thereof) into ventral and dorsal (anterior and posterior, respectively) sections.
- the coronal plane is orthogonal to the sagittal plane, and the two planes intersect along the central longitudinal axis.
- sagittal plane refers to a vertical, longitudinal plane containing the central longitudinal axis which passes from anterior to posterior along the central longitudinal axis, dividing a knob of the present disclosure (or an element thereof) into right and left halves.
- the sagittal plane is orthogonal to the coronal plane, and the two planes intersect along the central longitudinal axis.
- supplementary angles refers to two angles having a sum of 180 degrees.
- the present disclosure features an ergonomic knob for use with a hollow swinging implement used in a sport such as a stick or club used to play hockey, lacrosse, baseball (including softball), cricket, or golf. More specifically, the knob is adapted to be inserted into the hollow end of such a stick or club and aligns with the range of motion and grip of the hand to provide increased support, increased surface area contact, increased grip stability, increased swing precision, increased stick control, increased swing-power transfer from hands through the stick to the targeted object and a reduction of injury causing compression factors.
- the knob may be formed from any of a variety of materials that provide the mechanical strength and tactile properties for the sport. Typically, therefore, the knob will comprise a ceramic, metal, polymer, composite, wood or a composite or laminate thereof.
- the knob comprises a metal or an alloy thereof. Exemplary metals and metal alloys include aluminum, aluminum alloys, nickel, nickel alloys such as nickel iron, and cobalt alloys such as cobalt phosphorous.
- the knob comprises a polymer such as an epoxy resin, polyamine, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyester, polyether, polyimide, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, laser-fused plastic powders, or a copolymer or blend thereof.
- the knob comprises a composite such as a fiber-reinforced polymer wherein the polymer is one of the aforementioned polymers or a co-polymer or blend thereof, and the reinforcing fiber comprises aluminum fibers, an aramid or other polymeric fibers, carbon fibers, ceramic fibers, carbon nanotubes, glass fibers or a combination thereof.
- the knob is a laminate of wood or a polymeric material and a fiber-reinforced composite. Additionally, the knob may be solid, or wholly or partly hollow.
- the knob is adapted to be inserted into the hollow shaft of a swinging implement adapted for sports.
- the hollow shaft into which the knob is inserted may comprise a material other than wood.
- the hollow shaft may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of ceramics, metals, polymers, composites, and combinations thereof (in laminate or non-laminate form).
- the hollow shaft of the swinging implement comprises a metal or an alloy thereof.
- Exemplary metals and metal alloys include aluminum, aluminum alloys, nickel, nickel alloys such as nickel iron, and cobalt alloys such as cobalt phosphorous.
- the hollow shaft comprises a polymer such as an epoxy resin, polyamine, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyester, polyether, polyimide, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, or a copolymer or blend thereof.
- the hollow shaft comprises a composite such as a fiber-reinforced polymer wherein the polymer is one of the aforementioned polymers and the reinforcing fiber comprises aluminum fibers, an aramid or other polymeric fibers, carbon fibers, ceramic fibers, carbon nanotubes, glass fibers or a combination thereof.
- the hollow shaft comprises a laminate comprising an outer layer of resin-impregnated wood veneer formed integrally with an inner sheath of a fiber-reinforced fabric and resin composite.
- the two outer layers are formed over a core which may be formed of foamed plastic core.
- the foam core extends through the handle area and the blade is formed of synthetic fibers overlaid and bonded to an outer wood veneer sheath by resin which impregnates both layers.
- Knob 1 . 1 comprises a grip 1 . 3 and a tang 1 . 4 disposed along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 .
- Tang 1 . 4 extends from tang end 1 . 6 to step 1 . 31 , and is adapted for being inserted into the hollow end of a sports stick (not shown).
- the outer diameter and cross-sectional shape of the tang is adapted to conform to and closely fit the inner longitudinal cross-section diameter and interior of the hollow stick.
- the tang may have a polygonal (e.g., triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc.) oval, round or other regular or irregular cross-sectional shape that is adapted to conform to and closely fit the inner cross-sectional shape of the hollow swinging implement.
- the tang will have a length (measured along central longitudinal axis 1 .
- tang 1 . 4 has a length (measured along central axis 1 . 2 ) of about 2 inches to about 3 inches.
- tang 1 . 4 has a length of about 3 inches to about 5 inches.
- tang 1 . 4 has a length of about 5 inches to about 12 inches.
- central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the sports stick to provide a shared common longitudinal axis.
- the tang end 1 . 6 is beveled 1 . 61 , generally 30° to 60° from the longitudinal sides toward the central axis of the knob, to allow for easier initial guided insertion of the tang into the hollow end of the stick.
- Step 1 . 31 is adapted to abut the end of the sports stick when tang is inserted into the hollow end thereof and is sized to provide a smooth transition to outer surface 2 . 7 .
- step will typically have a size that matches the thickness of the wall of the sports stick (see, e.g., FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 ).
- Grip 1 . 3 is adapted to provide a structure and surface that enables an athlete to firmly grasp knob 1 . 1 while supporting an athlete's gripping hand ( FIG. 5 ).
- Grip 1 . 3 extends from step 1 . 31 to bottom surface 1 . 7 and includes neck region 1 . 9 , flange region 1 . 8 , and grip end 1 . 5 .
- grip 1 . 3 is divided into two parts by imaginary sagittal plane SP.
- grip 1 . 3 is bisected by imaginary sagittal plane SP.
- cross-section 1 . 3 B ( FIG. 3B ) and cross-section 1 . 3 C ( FIG. 3C ), respectively, are mirror images of each other.
- neck 1 . 9 is adapted to provide a gripping surface for the palm, thumb, and fingers of the gripping hand of an athlete (see FIG. 5 ) and a smooth transition from the step 1 . 31 and hollow end of the sports stick to flange 1 . 8 when tang 1 . 4 is inserted into the hollow end of the sports stick.
- neck 1 . 9 is sized and constructed to abut step 1 . 31 against the insertion-end of the sports stick with parallel surface alignment of outer surface 2 . 7 of the neck with the outer longitudinal surfaces of the hollow stick. For example, in one embodiment, at step 1 .
- the neck has an outer diameter and cross-sectional shape adapted to conform to the outer diameter and cross-sectional shape of a swinging implement.
- the neck transitions from a cross section that matches the cross-section of the outer longitudinal surfaces of the hollow stick (when viewed in cross-section perpendicular to central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 ) to a smooth, cross-section (e.g., rounded cross-section) in the region of imaginary plane 2 . 14 .
- imaginary points CP 1 and CP 2 and imaginary points VC 1 and DC 1 are approximately equidistant from central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 at imaginary plane 2 . 14 .
- neck 1 . 9 has a length (measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 ) of at least about 0.25 inches. In general, however, neck will have a length of less than about 12 inches. In some exemplary embodiments, the neck will have a length of about 0.25 to about 4 inches. In other embodiments, the neck will have a length of about 1 to 4 inches. In other embodiments, the neck will have a length of about 1 to about 2 inches. In other embodiments, the neck will have a length of about 0.5 to about 1.5 inches.
- flange 1 . 8 extends between neck 1 . 9 and grip end 1 . 5 and is adapted to provide a gripping and supporting surface for the little finger (sometimes referred to as the “small finger” or the “pinky”) and the hypothenar of the athlete's gripping hand (see FIG. 5 ).
- Flange 1 . 8 smoothly increases in circumference from imaginary transverse plane 2 . 14 to grip end 1 . 5 .
- flange 1 . 8 comprises ventral cantle region 5 . 1 and dorsal cantle region 5 . 2 that support the small finger and hypothenar, respectively.
- ventral cantle region 5 . 1 and dorsal cantle region 5 are examples of ventral cantle region 5 . 1 and dorsal cantle region 5 .
- ventral cantle region 5 . 1 and dorsal cantle region 5 . 2 gradually curve away from central longitudinal axis with dorsal cantle region 5 . 2 having a radius of curvature R DC that is less than the radius of curvature R VC of ventral cantle region 5 . 1 (see FIG. 1 ).
- the ratio of R DC to R VC will be at least 2:1.
- the ratio of R DC to R VC will be at least 3:1. By way of further example, in one embodiment the ratio of R DC to R VC will be at least 4:1. By way of further example, in one embodiment the ratio of R DC to R VC will be at least 5:1. In general, however, the ratio of R DC to R VC will be less than about 20:1.
- the ratio of R DC to R VC will be in the range of about 3:1 to about 20:1.
- the ratio of R DC to R VC will be in the range of about 4:1 to about 17.5:1.
- the ratio of R DC to R VC will be in the range of about 5:1 to about 15:1.
- the ratio of R DC to R VC will be in the range of about 5:1 to about 10:1.
- FIG. 2B and 2C which illustrate cross-sections of flange 1 . 8 taken along imaginary planes 2 . 13 and 2 . 12 , respectively.
- the distance from central longitudinal axis to imaginary point DC 2 at the surface of the dorsal cantle region exceeds the distance from central longitudinal axis to imaginary point VC 2 at the surface of the ventral cantle region and the semicircle on the dorsal side of coronal plane CP (i.e., the semicircle containing imaginary points CP 3 , CP 4 and DC 2 and coronal plane CP) has a greater surface area than the semicircle on the ventral side of coronal plane CP (i.e., the semicircle containing imaginary points CP 3 , CP 4 and VC 2 and coronal plane CP).
- the distance from central longitudinal axis to imaginary point DC 3 at the surface of the dorsal cantle region exceeds the distance from central longitudinal axis to imaginary point VC 3 at the surface of the ventral cantle region and the semicircle on the dorsal side of coronal plane CP (i.e., the semicircle containing imaginary points CP 5 , CP 6 and DC 3 and coronal plane CP) has a greater surface area than the semicircle on the ventral side of coronal plane CP (i.e., the semicircle containing imaginary points CP 5 , CP 6 and VC 3 and coronal plane CP). Additionally, ventral cantle region 5 .
- ventral cantle region 5 . 1 and dorsal cantle region 5 . 2 each increase in size moving along central longitudinal axis in the direction of grip end 1 . 5 .
- the cross-sectional area of ventral cantle region 5 . 1 and dorsal cantle region 5 . 2 taken along imaginary plane 2 . 12 exceeds the cross-sectional area of ventral cantle region 5 . 1 and dorsal cantle region 5 . 2 taken along imaginary plane 2 . 13 .
- ventral cantle region 5 . 1 provides a more gradual transition between the neck 1 . 9 and grip end 1 . 5 , thereby providing a more comfortable resting place for the hypothenar or “heal” of the hand, the palmar arches, and the fifth digit (i.e., pinky finger).
- Grip end 1 . 5 is configured to cooperate with the user's hand so as to help prevent the user's hand from slipping from the grip 1 . 3 and terminates in generally planar bottom surface 1 . 7 disposed at an oblique angle relative to central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 .
- the grip end will have a circumference that exceeds the circumference of the neck 1 . 9 proximate step 1 . 31 .
- grip end 1 . 5 will have a circumference that is at least 110% of the circumference of the neck 1 . 9 proximate step 1 . 31 .
- grip end 1 . 5 will have a circumference that is at least 150% of the circumference of the neck 1 .
- grip end 1 . 5 will have a circumference that is at least 200% of the circumference of the neck 1 . 9 proximate step 1 . 31 .
- grip end 1 . 5 will have a circumference that is less than 300% of the circumference of the neck 1 . 9 proximate step 1 . 31 .
- grip end 1 . 5 will have a circumference that is in the range of about 110 to 300% of the circumference of the neck 1 . 9 proximate step 1 . 31 .
- grip end 1 . 5 will have a circumference that is in the range of 110-150%, 150 to 200% or even 200-300% of the circumference of the neck 1 . 9 proximate step 1 . 31 .
- surface 1 . 7 of grip end is at an oblique angle relative to central longitudinal axis.
- angle A is between 90 and 170 degrees and angle B is between 10 and 90 degrees, wherein angles A and B are supplementary angles.
- A is between 90 and 120 and degrees and angle B is between 90 and 60 degrees, wherein angles A and B are supplementary angles.
- A is between 120 and 170 degrees and angle B is between 60 and 10 degrees, wherein angles A and B are supplementary angles.
- grip 1 . 3 will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 5 to about 95% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 and tang 1 . 4 will have a complementary length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 95 to about 5% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 .
- grip 1 . 3 will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 15 to about 85% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 and tang 1 .
- grip 1 . 3 will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 25 to about 75% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 and tang 1 . 4 will have a complementary length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 75 to about 25% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 .
- grip 1 . 3 will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 25 to about 75% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 and tang 1 . 4 will have a complementary length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 75 to about 25% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 .
- grip 1 . 3 will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 35 to about 65% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 and tang 1 . 4 will have a complementary length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 65 to about 35% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 .
- grip 1 . 3 will have a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 40 to about 60% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 and tang 1 . 4 will have a complementary length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 60 to about 40% of the distance between grip end 1 . 5 and tang end 1 . 6 .
- FIG. 3A shows the knob in front view with the ventral cantle region shown comprising generally half the circumference of the knob and smoothly transitioning to the dorsal cantle gripping surface on the opposing side of the knob as shown in FIG. 4 .
- the two longitudinal oppositional halves of the knob, shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C , with the shared sagittal plane SP are mirrored shapes, providing the same structural support to hypothenar of a gripping hand, regardless of which hand is gripping the knob—left hand or right hand.
- FIG. 4 is a rear view of the knob 1 . 1 and depicts dorsal cantle region 5 . 2 (shown in dashed lines. As previously described, dorsal cantle region smoothly transitions to the ventral cantle region on the opposing side of the knob (see FIG. 3 ).
- the two longitudinal halves of the knob, left longitudinal half 4 . 2 and right longitudinal half 4 . 3 are separated by the imaginary plane (coincident with central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 ) are mirrored shapes, providing the same structural to the little finger of a gripping hand, regardless of which hand is gripping the knob—left hand or right hand.
- FIG. 5 shows the embodiment of FIG. 1 (with tang 1 . 4 inserted into the hollow end of a sports stick (shown in phantom) having a sports stick longitudinal axis 5 . 5 that is coincident with central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 ) with a gripping right hand wherein the hypothenar of the gripping hand is cradled by the ventral cantle region, generally indicated 5 . 1 , and wherein the small finger is gripping the dorsal cantle structure generally indicated 5 . 2 .
- the gripping hand, left or right, gripping the same knob will properly align with the structures of the knob with either hand to provide proper support and grip. Additionally, this arrangement allows the small finger of the gripping hand to firmly grasp, generally around the central axis of the knob, in opposition to the hypothenar, thereby enabling a strong and stable grip on the knob and thus to the stick to which the knob is attached.
- FIG. 6 shows a 3 ⁇ 4 rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 , with a generally rectangular tang, 1 . 4 , for close longitudinal insertion into a hollow, generally rectangular stick, as indicated 6 . 4 , as a greater number of hockey sticks are comprised.
- Neck 1 . 9 provides a transition from the generally smoothly curved flange (as previously described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 ) to a generally smaller diameter, cross sectional shape, whose outer most circumference dimensions, align with the outer most cross-sectional circumference dimensions of the hollow end of the stick to which the knob is affixed.
- FIG. 6 shows the tang structure 1 . 4 shaped and aligned for close insertion into the hollow, longitudinal end of a hockey stick, 6 . 4 having longitudinal axis 5 . 5 .
- central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 and stick longitudinal axis 5 . 5 are coincident.
- FIG. 7 shows a 3 ⁇ 4 rear view of an alternative embodiment of FIG. 1 , with a generally octagonal tang, 7 . 2 , for close longitudinal insertion into a hollow, generally octagonal stick 7 . 4 , as the greater number of lacrosse sticks are comprised.
- tang 7 . 2 has an octagonal cross-section to match the cross-section of stick 7 . 4 .
- the neck 7 . 3 transitions the generally round cross section of the flange to a generally octagonal cross section as demonstrated in the description of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 demonstrate just two of a multitude of possible combinations of tang shape and hollow stick shapes which can allow the present disclosure to be affixed to any number of hollow sticks, handles, shafts and the like.
- FIG. 8 shows a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , from the generally rectangular tang-end 1 . 6 of the knob with the central longitudinal axis of the knob indicated as 1 . 2 .
- the top view of the ventral cantle region is generally indicated 8 . 1 and the top view of the dorsal cantle gripping structure is generally indicated 8 . 2 .
- the mirrored longitudinal halves of the knob, as previously described, are generally indicated 8 . 5 and 8 . 6 .
- Beveled surface 1 . 61 provides a transition from tang end 1 . 6 to outer surface 2 . 7 .
- the neck and tang as shown are configured for alignment with a generally rectangular hollow stick similar to those comprising hockey sticks.
- FIG. 9 shows a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 of a generally octagonal tang, from the tang-end of the knob with the central longitudinal axis of the knob indicated as 1 . 2 .
- the top view of the ventral cantle region is generally indicated 9 . 1
- the top view of the dorsal cantle gripping structure is generally indicated 9 . 2 .
- the mirrored longitudinal halves of the knob, as previously described, are generally indicated 9 . 5 and 9 . 6 .
- Beveled surface 1 . 61 provides a transition from tang end 1 . 6 to outer surface 2 . 7 .
- the neck and tang as shown are configured for alignment with a generally octagonal hollow stick.
- the dorsal and ventral cantle support and gripping structures remain generally unchanged while the shape of the tang and the neck of the knob may comprise different dimensions and shapes without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- FIG. 10 shows the knob and hand of FIG. 5 , with the tang of the knob fully inserted to a hockey stick, as indicated 10 . 1 .
- the knob is affixed to the stick in an orientation which specifically brings the proper gripping relationship of the hand and the stick into proper alignment wherein the blade, as shown 10 . 2 , aligns on the same side 10 . 3 of the stick as the ventral cantle region of the knob.
- central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 is coincident with longitudinal axis 5 . 5 of the hockey stick.
- FIG. 11 shows in greater detail, the knob, gripping hand and fragmentary of the hockey stick from FIG. 10 ., wherein the knob 1 . 1 is fully inserted into the hollow end of the hockey stick 11 . 2 .
- the central longitudinal axis of the knob, 1 . 2 is shown in coincident parallel overlay 11 . 3 , with the central longitudinal axis of the hockey stick 5 . 5 .
- the external longitudinal surfaces of the hockey stick directly abut the external longitudinal surfaces of the neck of the knob providing a smooth contiguous surface from stick to knob.
- FIG. 12 shows the knob of FIG. 7 , with gripping hand, fully affixed to a lacrosse stick, as indicated 12 . 1 .
- the knob is affixed to the stick in an orientation which specifically brings the gripping relationship of the hand and the stick into proper alignment wherein the net-side of the head, as shown 12 . 2 , aligns on the same side of the stick as the ventral cantle-like supporting surface of the knob 12 . 3 . This is generally the proper relationship for the base-gripping hand to engage a lacrosse stick.
- FIG. 13 shows in greater detail, the knob, gripping hand and fragmentary of the lacrosse stick from FIG. 12 , wherein the knob is fully inserted into the hollow end of the lacrosse stick.
- the central longitudinal axis of the knob, 1 . 2 is shown in coincident parallel overlay 13 . 3 , with the central longitudinal axis of the lacrosse stick 5 . 5 .
- the external longitudinal surfaces of the lacrosse stick directly abut the external longitudinal surfaces of the neck of the knob providing a smooth contiguous surface from stick to knob.
- FIG. 14 shows the knob 14 . 2 of FIG. 7 inserted into the hollow end of a baseball bat 14 . 1 , being gripped by a gripping hand.
- FIG. 15 shows the knob 15 . 4 of FIG. 7 inserted into the hollow end of a golf club 15 . 1 being gripped by a gripping hand.
- the knob is affixed to the stick wherein the ventral cantle gripping structure of the knob is aligned on the same side of the sagittal plane as the club head and the dorsal cantle region is on the opposite side of the sagittal plane from the club head as shown 15 . 2 .
- surface 16 . 1 of grip end is substantially perpendicular to central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 .
- grip end 1 . 5 is wedge shaped but the structure and features of neck 1 . 9 , flange 1 . 8 (including ventral and dorsal cantle regions 5 . 1 and 5 . 2 ) and grip end 1 . 5 are as previously described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- surface 17 . 1 of grip end is substantially dome-shaped but the structure and features of neck 1 . 9 , flange 1 . 8 (including ventral and dorsal cantle regions 5 . 1 and 5 . 2 ) and grip end 1 . 5 are as previously described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- surface 18 . 1 of grip end is substantially planar and disposed at an oblique angle relative to central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 .
- grip-end 1 . 5 is proportionately (relative to flange 1 . 8 ) larger than in certain other embodiments described herein but the structure and features of neck 1 . 9 and flange 1 . 8 (including ventral and dorsal cantle regions 5 . 1 and 5 . 2 ) are as previously described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- knob 19 . 1 includes tang 1 . 4 and grip 1 . 3 , but grip 1 . 3 does not include a neck 1 . 9 .
- grip 1 . 3 includes only flange 1 . 8 and grip end 1 . 5 .
- the structure and features of flange 1 . 8 (including ventral and dorsal cantle regions 5 . 1 and 5 . 2 ) and grip end 1 . 5 are as previously described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- grip end 1 . 5 may possess any of the alternative shapes as described, for example, in connection with FIGS. 16, 17 and 18 .
- the knob includes a tang and grip
- the grip optionally does not include a neck and the tang a circular cross-section (when viewed in cross-section perpendicular to central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 ).
- FIG. 19B is a top view of FIG. 19A featuring a tang having a round cross-sectional shape.
- the structure and features of neck 1 . 9 , if present, flange 1 . 8 (including ventral and dorsal cantle regions 5 . 1 and 5 . 2 ) and grip end 1 . 5 are as previously described in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- grip end 1 . 5 may possess any of the alternative shapes as described, for example, in connection with FIGS. 16, 17 and 18 .
- knob 1 . 1 includes an internal cavity 22 . 2 to accommodate an electronic device 22 . 4 such as an accelerometer or other electronic sensor to monitor an athlete's swing when tang 1 . 4 is inserted into the hollow end of a sports stick such as a baseball bat (see, e.g., FIG. 14 ).
- electronic device has a central axis 22 . 5 that is aligned with knob central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 .
- the electronic device may be held by friction fit, adhesive, a mechanical fastener, and the like.
- cavity 22 . 2 is enclosed by cover 22 . 6 after electronic device 22 . 4 is inserted into cavity.
- Exemplary electronic devices include Zepp brand electronic motion sensors sold by Zepp Labs (Los Gatos, Calif.) and those described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,725,452 (which is incorporated herein in its entirety).
- the present disclosure further includes the following enumerated embodiments.
- Embodiment 1 A knob adapted for insertion into the hollow end of a sports stick, the knob comprising a central longitudinal axis, a tang for insertion into the hollow end of the sports stick, a grip adapted for being grasped by the hand of an athlete, and a step between the tang and the grip adapted for abutting the end surface of the hollow end of the sports stick when the tang is inserted therein, the grip comprising a grip end distal to the tang, a dorsal cantle region and a ventral cantle region, the dorsal and ventral cantle regions being between the tang and the grip end and on opposing sides of an imaginary coronal plane containing the central longitudinal axis and divided by an imaginary sagittal plane that contains the central longitudinal axis and is orthogonal to the imaginary coronal plane, the dorsal and ventral cantle regions each providing a curved support surface for the hand of the athlete when the athlete is gripping the sports stick, the dorsal cant
- Embodiment 2 The knob of Embodiment 1 wherein a ratio of the radius of curvature of the ventral cantle region to the radius of curvature of the dorsal cantle region is at least 2:1, respectively.
- Embodiment 3 The knob of Embodiment 1 wherein a ratio of the radius of curvature of the ventral cantle region to the radius of curvature of the dorsal cantle region is at least 3:1, respectively.
- Embodiment 4 The knob of Embodiment 1 wherein a ratio of the radius of curvature of the ventral cantle region to the radius of curvature of the dorsal cantle region is at least 5:1, respectively.
- Embodiment 5 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-4 wherein a ratio of the radius of curvature of the ventral cantle region to the radius of curvature of the dorsal cantle region is less than 20:1.
- Embodiment 6 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-4 wherein a ratio of the radius of curvature of the ventral cantle region to the radius of curvature of the dorsal cantle region is less than 15:1, respectively.
- Embodiment 7 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-4 wherein a ratio of the radius of curvature of the ventral cantle region to the radius of curvature of the dorsal cantle region is less than 10:1, respectively.
- Embodiment 8 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-7 wherein the imaginary sagittal plane bisects each of the dorsal and the ventral cantle regions into symmetrical halves, respectively.
- Embodiment 9 A knob adapted for insertion into the hollow end of a sports stick, the knob comprising a central longitudinal axis, a tang for insertion into the hollow end of the sports stick, a grip adapted for being grasped by the hand of an athlete, and a step between the tang and the grip adapted for abutting the end surface of the hollow end of the sports stick when the tang is inserted therein, the grip comprising a grip end distal to the tang, a dorsal cantle region and a ventral cantle region, the dorsal and ventral cantle regions being between the tang and the grip end and on opposing sides of an imaginary coronal plane containing the central longitudinal axis and bisected by an imaginary sagittal plane that contains the central longitudinal axis and is orthogonal to the imaginary coronal plane, the dorsal and ventral cantle regions each providing a curved support surface for the hand of the athlete when the athlete is gripping the sports stick, wherein the dors
- Embodiment 10 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-9 wherein the ventral cantle region smoothly transitions about the central longitudinal axis to the dorsal cantle region.
- Embodiment 11 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-10 wherein the grip end has a circumference that is at least 110% of the circumference of the neck.
- Embodiment 12 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-10 wherein the grip end has a circumference that is at least 150% of the circumference of the neck.
- Embodiment 13 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-10 wherein the grip end has a circumference that is at least 200% of the circumference of the neck.
- Embodiment 14 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-10 wherein the grip end has a circumference that is at least 300% of the circumference of the neck.
- Embodiment 15 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-14 wherein the tang has a length measured along the central longitudinal axis of about 2 to about 12 inches.
- Embodiment 16 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-15 wherein the tang has an end that is beveled at an angle of about 30° to 60° from the longitudinal sides of the tang and toward the longitudinal central axis to allow for easier initial guided insertion of the tang into the hollow end of the stick.
- Embodiment 17 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-16 wherein the grip has a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 5 to about 95% of the length of the knob and the tang has a complementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis, that is about 95 to about 5% of the length of the knob.
- Embodiment 18 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-16 wherein the grip has a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 15 to about 85% of the length of the knob and the tang has a complementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis, that is about 85 to about 15% of the length of the knob.
- Embodiment 19 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-16 wherein the grip has a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 25 to about 75% of the length of the knob and the tang has a complementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis, that is about 75 to about 25% of the length of the knob.
- Embodiment 20 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-16 wherein the grip has a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 35 to about 65% of the length of the knob and the tang has a complementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis, that is about 65 to about 35% of the length of the knob.
- Embodiment 21 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-16 wherein the grip has a length, as measured along central longitudinal axis 1 . 2 , that is about 40 to about 60% of the length of the knob and the tang has a complementary length, as measured along the central longitudinal axis, that is about 60 to about 40% of the length of the knob.
- Embodiment 22 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-21 wherein the grip comprises a neck between the flange and the tang.
- Embodiment 23 The knob of Embodiment 22 wherein the neck has a length measured along the central longitudinal axis of at least about 0.25 inches.
- Embodiment 24 The knob of Embodiment 22 wherein the neck has a length measured along the central longitudinal axis in the range of about 0.25 to about 4 inches.
- Embodiment 25 The knob of Embodiment 22 wherein the neck has a length measured along the central longitudinal axis in the range of about 1 to about 4 inches.
- Embodiment 26 The knob of Embodiment 22 wherein the neck has a length measured along the central longitudinal axis in the range of about 1 to about 2 inches.
- Embodiment 27 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-26 wherein the knob comprises a ceramic, metal, polymer, composite, wood or a composite or laminate thereof.
- Embodiment 28 The knob of any of Embodiments 1-26 wherein the knob comprises a ceramic, metal, polymer, composite, or a composite or laminate thereof.
- Embodiment 29 A combination of a sport stick and a knob, the knob corresponding to the knob of any of Embodiments 1-28 and being inserted into a hollow end of the sport stick.
- Embodiment 30 The combination of Embodiment 29 wherein the sport stick is a hockey stick, a lacrosse stick, a golf club, or a baseball bat.
- Embodiment 31 The combination of Embodiment 29 wherein the sport stick is a hockey stick, a lacrosse stick, or a golf club.
- Embodiment 32 A combination of a hockey stick and a knob, the knob corresponding to the knob of any of Embodiments 1-28 and being inserted into a hollow end of the hockey stick wherein the ventral cantle region of knob is on the same side of the hockey stick as the blade of the hockey stick.
- Embodiment 33 A combination of a lacrosse stick and a knob, the knob corresponding to the knob of any of Embodiments 1-28 and being inserted into a hollow end of the lacrosse stick wherein the ventral cantle region of knob is on the same side of the lacrosse stick as the net-side of the head of the lacrosse stick.
- Embodiment 34 A combination of a golf club and a knob, the knob corresponding to the knob of any of Embodiments 1-28 and being inserted into a hollow end of the golf club wherein the ventral cantle region of knob and the head of the golf club are on the same side of the imaginary sagittal plane and the dorsal cantle region and the head of the golf club are on opposite sides of the imaginary sagittal plane.
- Embodiment 35 A combination of a baseball bat and a knob, the knob corresponding to the knob of any of Embodiments 1-28 and being inserted into a hollow end of the baseball bat wherein the tang and step have a circular cross-section.
- Embodiment 36 The combination of Embodiment 35 wherein the knob comprises a cavity at grip end of the knob sized to accommodate a motion sensor.
- Embodiment 37 The combination of Embodiment 35 wherein the knob comprises a cavity at grip end of the knob sized to accommodate a motion sensor, and the combination further comprises an electronic motion sensor housed in the cavity.
- Embodiment 38 The combination of any of Embodiments 29 to 37 wherein the knob is securely affixed to the sports stick.
- Embodiment 39 The combination of any of Embodiments 29 to 37 wherein the knob is securely affixed to the sports stick by welding, screws, nails, staples, glue, adhesive, heat-activated glue, or epoxy.
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- Walking Sticks, Umbrellas, And Fans (AREA)
Abstract
Description
-
- 1. A “speed-bump” effect wherein the hand is un-naturally forced over the larger knob thus negatively impacting and slowing down the natural swing thus reducing accuracy, power and hand speed.
- 2. Compression to the ulnar nerve of the base gripping hand, which controls the grip of the pinky and ring fingers, causing potential momentary grip failure as evidenced by thrown bats in baseball and thrown clubs in golf.
- 3. Injuries like broken hamate bones, contusions, wrist strain and nerve damage all of which occur in the areas in and surrounding the hypothenar.
Claims (13)
Priority Applications (1)
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US15/325,212 US11253761B2 (en) | 2014-07-13 | 2015-07-10 | Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick |
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US201462023937P | 2014-07-13 | 2014-07-13 | |
PCT/US2015/039906 WO2016010846A1 (en) | 2014-07-13 | 2015-07-10 | Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick |
US15/325,212 US11253761B2 (en) | 2014-07-13 | 2015-07-10 | Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick |
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PCT/US2015/039906 A-371-Of-International WO2016010846A1 (en) | 2014-07-13 | 2015-07-10 | Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick |
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US17/677,475 Continuation US20220212072A1 (en) | 2014-07-13 | 2022-02-22 | Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick |
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US20170182387A1 US20170182387A1 (en) | 2017-06-29 |
US11253761B2 true US11253761B2 (en) | 2022-02-22 |
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US17/677,475 Abandoned US20220212072A1 (en) | 2014-07-13 | 2022-02-22 | Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick |
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US17/677,475 Abandoned US20220212072A1 (en) | 2014-07-13 | 2022-02-22 | Ergonomic knob insert for hollow stick |
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EP (1) | EP3166699A4 (en) |
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Cited By (4)
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US20220126180A1 (en) * | 2020-10-26 | 2022-04-28 | Proxr, Llc | Sports Implement Having Asymmetric Grip |
USD961031S1 (en) * | 2020-12-14 | 2022-08-16 | Proxr, Llc | Grip for baseball bat |
USD976351S1 (en) * | 2020-10-08 | 2023-01-24 | Proxr, Llc | Wrap-around knob for bat |
USD1026145S1 (en) * | 2022-06-10 | 2024-05-07 | Proxr, Llc | Grip for a sporting implement |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US10610753B1 (en) * | 2018-11-28 | 2020-04-07 | Eaton Intelligent Power Limited | Flexible golf club grip with stable cap |
USD1015466S1 (en) | 2021-11-19 | 2024-02-20 | Karsten Manufacturing Corporation | Golf club sensor housing |
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US6783463B2 (en) * | 2002-03-25 | 2004-08-31 | Pure Pendulum Corporation | Golf putter and grip therefor |
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US20080200288A1 (en) * | 2005-08-09 | 2008-08-21 | Giant Project, Inc. | Swinging Implement |
CN201366220Y (en) | 2009-02-10 | 2009-12-23 | 青岛新新体育用品有限公司 | Badminton racket |
US20100081515A1 (en) * | 2008-10-01 | 2010-04-01 | James White | Weights for grip length extensions to test golf clubs |
US20100120561A1 (en) * | 2008-11-07 | 2010-05-13 | Clancy Brian T | Hockey Stick Handle |
US20120120572A1 (en) | 2010-08-26 | 2012-05-17 | Michael Bentley | Motion capture element mount |
US20130053190A1 (en) * | 2011-08-29 | 2013-02-28 | Icuemotion, Llc | Racket sport inertial sensor motion tracking and analysis |
US20130190111A1 (en) * | 2007-11-15 | 2013-07-25 | Bruce R. Leinert | Baseball bat |
US20130210535A1 (en) | 2011-08-19 | 2013-08-15 | Daniel Moss | Instructional golf method and club |
US20130267339A1 (en) * | 2011-04-28 | 2013-10-10 | Nike, Inc. | Golf Clubs and Golf Club Heads |
-
2015
- 2015-07-10 WO PCT/US2015/039906 patent/WO2016010846A1/en active Application Filing
- 2015-07-10 EP EP15822379.2A patent/EP3166699A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2015-07-10 RU RU2017104409A patent/RU2017104409A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2015-07-10 CA CA2954774A patent/CA2954774A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2015-07-10 US US15/325,212 patent/US11253761B2/en active Active
-
2022
- 2022-02-22 US US17/677,475 patent/US20220212072A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US20130210535A1 (en) | 2011-08-19 | 2013-08-15 | Daniel Moss | Instructional golf method and club |
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Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD976351S1 (en) * | 2020-10-08 | 2023-01-24 | Proxr, Llc | Wrap-around knob for bat |
US20220126180A1 (en) * | 2020-10-26 | 2022-04-28 | Proxr, Llc | Sports Implement Having Asymmetric Grip |
USD961031S1 (en) * | 2020-12-14 | 2022-08-16 | Proxr, Llc | Grip for baseball bat |
USD1026145S1 (en) * | 2022-06-10 | 2024-05-07 | Proxr, Llc | Grip for a sporting implement |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2954774A1 (en) | 2016-01-21 |
EP3166699A4 (en) | 2018-07-11 |
US20220212072A1 (en) | 2022-07-07 |
EP3166699A1 (en) | 2017-05-17 |
WO2016010846A1 (en) | 2016-01-21 |
US20170182387A1 (en) | 2017-06-29 |
RU2017104409A (en) | 2018-08-14 |
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